Secretary of State for Wales Celebrates Success Story

June 25, 2009 - PRLog -- On the 25th March 2009, the Right Honourable Paul Murphy MP, Secretary of State for Wales, paid a visit to Mid Wales manufacturing company Mangar International to celebrate the company's unprecedented growth amid testing economic times. The company design, manufacture and supply a wide range of products to enable independent living for the elderly and disabled. Joined by Roger Williams, MP for Brecon and Radnorshire and Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary of State for Wales, Paul Murphy was welcomed to Mangar International by the company's pioneering Managing Director, Andrew Barker.

The visit began with an introduction into Mangar International given by Andrew Barker, including an overview of the company's history, financial situation, and ambitious plans for the future. This was followed by a tour of the Presteigne Head Office giving the visitors the opportunity to see the company's onsite design and manufacturing facilities. To end the afternoon local business leaders with a combined workforce of over 600 employees were invited along for a rare opportunity of open discussion with both Paul Murphy and Roger Williams.

Following the visit the Secretary of State said: "I was greatly impressed by all that I saw and heard at Mangar International yesterday. It is a go-getting company prospering at the very heart of rural Wales. Mangar has made considerable progress in recent years and it is pushing hard in the current economic climate. Its product development and placement will, I hope, keep the company at the fore in its markets, which are continually growing and developing."

Roger Williams MP was also impressed with what he saw: "During a time of great difficulty for the manufacturing sector and the economy in general it is great to have a good news story. Mangar International is such an example.

"It was started 26 years ago by Mr David Garman, who had great vision to see the possibility of less able people's lives being enhanced by quality aids, it is now working towards its full business potential under the stewardship of the new managing director, Mr Andrew Barker.

"It is a valued employer in East Radnorshire and its success ensures that this employment is secure.

"I congratulate everyone at Mangar International for using their skills and enthusiasm and expertise to make this a success story that Wales can be proud of."

Andrew Barker, Managing Director, commented "Mid Wales is a force in manufacturing that is often overlooked. Events like this are vital to give our region a voice to discuss concerns and celebrate achievements. Paul Murphy and Roger Wiliams were heartened by what we have achieved and impressed by our plans for the future. We look forward to their return in the not too distant future when we can show the outcome and success of the plans we shared."

26.3.09

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Designers and manufacturers of products for the elderly & disabled. Established in 1981 Mangar designed the world's first powered portable bath lift, and continues to develop innovative solutions to lifting, handling & transfer problems. At the core of its product range development is the aim to promote independent living.